5 Things to Do Instead of Giving in to Black Friday Consumerism

Black Friday — the day when eager shoppers rise before the sun to sit in traffic, wait in line and fight grumpy crowds for the promise of can’t-miss bargains. Over the last few years, shopping has seeped into Thanksgiving, with some stores opening early on Thursday. It symbolizes how out of control consumerism in America has become.

Do you really want to spend the day after Thanksgiving fighting other frenzied shoppers over bargain-priced store items? Or by staring relentlessly at your device screen, waiting for the best online deals to appear? After a holiday where people are supposed to be surrounded by loved ones and sharing what they are thankful for, we shouldn't be giving into material items that won't give us any real lasting happiness.

If you want to do something less materialistic and more rewarding on Black Friday, here are some suggestions.

Spend Time With Family

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Who needs to get up at the crack of dawn for the latest and greatest new video game console when a deck of cards can entertain for hours? Spending time at home with your family, rather than fighting crowds of shoppers, will bring you much more joy on Black Friday. There are so many fun activities that you can participate in. Get in the holiday spirit by parking in front of the TV for an all-day Netflix marathon. Create epic Thanksgiving leftovers recipes with your children, and see who comes up with the most delicious ideas. Decorate a gingerbread house or create another fun craft with your kids. Whatever activity you decide to do, you will be happy that you chose to spend time at home with those you love.

Volunteer With or Donate to a Local Charity

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Whether it’s helping out at a local soup kitchen, visiting seniors in a nursing home or interacting with lonely cats and dogs at an animal shelter, volunteering a few hours of your time is a win-win. You’ll feel good for helping others and brightening their day and they’ll be thankful that you shared some quality time.

If you don't have the ability to donate your time, choosing to donate money is just as helpful. Instead of buying more stuff you or people on your holiday gift list probably don’t need, make a cash donation to your favorite charity in their honor.

Given the holiday, chances are you have an extra can of green beans or other non-perishable goods that got overlooked in the chaos of Thanksgiving. Take the time on Black Friday to look through your cabinets for items you'd like to donate and bring them to your local food pantry.

Choose to Shop Local or at Thrift Stores

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If you absolutely must go shopping on Black Friday, there are some ways you can do it while avoiding the mass consumer market. Instead of shopping at the big box retail stores, find family owned local business that you can support. Shopping local means helping to create local jobs, nurturing your community, and investing in entrepreneurship. Locally owned businesses also have employees that are passionate about their jobs, and have more in-depth knowledge of the products they are selling.

Many of us donate items regularly to thrift shops, but not near as many choose to shop there. Many thrift shops are great places to find hidden treasures. Many thrift shops are operated by charitable or non-profit organizations, giving back to your own community. Furthermore, the purchases are eco-friendly, and will help you stretch your budget for the holidays.

Spend Time in Nature

Once you’ve slept off the food coma, everyone will probably be anxious to burn off some of that turkey and pie. Escape to nearby woods or a local mountain to enjoy the crisp fall air while you enjoy a family hike. If there’s a national or state park not too far away from you now is the opportune time to visit. This will be much more pleasant than walking the stretches of crowded Black Friday shopping malls.

If hiking isn't your thing, consider some winter sports activities such as ice skating, snowboard, or sledding. Even if you aren't good at any of it, you will have a blast with your family and the bruises will be worth it. Of course these depend on the weather, but even if it's not snowing, any activity outside is a great way to spend a Friday.